The Crab Society Blog is your platform for change. No blue Crabs allowed. In addition, if you happen to be a crab, know that there's some boiling water waiting for you. Remember out of the abundance of the heart the mouth speaks.

Monday, April 30, 2007

Who's a Crab?

42 comments:

Why are you concerned with the situation in that bucket? Shouldn't you have paid closer attention to the trap that put your dumb ass in there in the first place? I guess not, better to be in a situation where you can blame all your shortcomings on your fellow crabs rather than making it on your own...

Thank you for your post,however, please refrain from posting profanity. Try helping someone for a change. You just could not resist... could ya! The bucket was dumped on me. I didnt asked for it.I work hard everyday to make life better for myself and others. Still yt i find it difficylt when others, especially my own have so much envy. Any solutions? someone,

Get on board, the gettin' is good. Being called an Uncle Tom by ignorant illiterate people such as Ryan B is a compliment to me, he is the loudmouth crab hollering at the bottom of the bucket when he sees me climbing out, misery loves company. Make your own choices people, don't let anybody do it for you, especially the ignorant ones!

Plymouth Rock Landed on Us: The Pilgrum wuz racist alung wit Archy Butt Hole2 shots in the dark now Huey's dedI got love for my brotha but we can nevar go nowhureunless we share with\ each othaWe gotta start makin' changeslyrn to see me as a brotha instad of 2 dis-tand straingersand that's how it's supposed to beHow can the Devil take a brotha if he's close to me?I'd love to go back to when we played as litle chimpsbut things changed, and that's the way it is my niggasTupac is still alive and hiz nuxt albem is due nex weak

If champ walker was really concerned for the citizens of hyde park he would be demonstrating down town not on austin rhodes,He knows that he cant help those people so he jumped on the next HOT train,soon he will get off of it also because if beasley was going to fire rhodes he would have all ready been gone. Champ said today that if the AP had this story that rhodes would already b gone. Well doesnt mr big shot own a paper> why didnt he send the story to the AP wire? He has nothing on him and I hope rhodes leaves him with nothing but his wife and kids. I wish I could sit on the jury!!!

for rev.bush you seem to think you know all about the civil war,so let me me advise you of a few facts about the war,over two hundred thousand black men fought for the south,one might be your grandfather,2-you never talk about all the free slaves in the south,3-after the war 80% of blacks stayed on the plantations that they worked for 4- this willie lynch ya'll always talk about is as fake as superman,i have talked with 14 college professors in history in 14 differant colleges,8 which are black professors and they have all stated that there is historical facts on willie lynch.i think to a certain degree you mr bush and champ want to bring the black and white people together and i think we need to talk about a few issues that i think will help please feel free to call me at anytime 706-267-9943

Crabs in a bucket. Now I see the crabs in in a total differant way than this web site see it. The way I see that crab getting out of the bucket as making a move and not trying to help his fellow crabs. So one of the crab try to get on the ban wagon. In stead of taking his brother with him he rather let go and try going another way. The crabs that are left in the bucket just what him to reach down and pull them up with him. The claming crab want it all to him self. He want to be a lobster not a crab. He don't want to be seen with other crab. Now I don't know if you understand my analogy on the crab in the bucket. That is the way I see some of my black brothers and sisters that become successful. A lot of them do not try and reach down to help pull up the one thats struggling to have something or to become successful. What I am trying to say is don't forget where you come from you crab.

What’s up whiteboy? Sounds like you are another haterthat's plaguing our lovely city.Can't stand to be looking up at a man of another color when they are out-doing you, huh? Good to know you are listening to talk radio on the "Other side.” You might learn something if you remain attentive. Obviously it hasn't hit you yet. There’s hope for you, nevertheless... just keep listening. You sound like an Alaskan Snow Crab but you are white. FYI: If you were not worried you wouldn’t even comment. We hope you get some information, education and therapy while listening. Seek Jesus for the truth.

ANYTIME YOU WANT TO TALK HISTORY BRING IT ON,I WILL OPEN YOUR EYES TO LIES YOU HAVE BEEN TOLD ALL THESE YEARS YOU HAVE MY NUMBER ARE YOU AFRAID TO CALL BECAUSE I MIGHT OPEN YOUR EYES,BLACK AN WHITE CAN LIVE TOGETHER LIKE PEAS AN CARROTS IF THEY KNOW THE TRUTH

I seriously doubt that they are SCARED, Stan. First of all, what is it to be scared of? Have you tried call in on Champ's radio show. He's on from 2-3PM, Mon-Fri. Are YOU scared to be educated? I heard that Champ was out of town...maybe thats why you havent heard from him. Not sure if Bishop Bush read this blog. Try him at the station, too.

I would like 2 thank waaw 4 keeping me aware of whats going on here. I had no idea when i moved here that things were this bad! There is so much ignorance going on! whites and blacks need 2 open their eyes b/c its EFFECTING all races! Whites take ur head out of each others butt, wrong is wrong! Blacks get ur head out of a hole and fight 4 ur kids and their kids even though we will b fighting 4eva at least we tried! Support the causes we can only go up from here weve already hit the bottom!

The issues we face every day in the CSRA can only get better when people take action and “get in where they fit in” (the catch phrase of Champ Walker). Each one of us has a responsibility to pull the other person up. The Crab in a bucket syndrome has kept many communities from reaching their potential. We can do more to improve this area if we stop thinking only about ourselves and our immediate family. I've been enlightened by listening and others have joined the movement. It’s just a matter of time before our collective efforts pay off and citizens band together, and change leadership - which will change our plight.

No ‘Turn from your evil ways,’ you are not necessarily a Crab when one disagrees with your brother or sister. It’s the motive or intent that one have. It’s strange how people really don't want to acknowledge their hidden envy and self righteousness. However, all of us need to make certain that we ask God to search our hearts and minds. Who are we to judge anyone? I disagree with folks all the time. I'm sure I have crab tendencies, too. The key is to accept the diagnosis and trust God to work it out.

Yeap. It isn't all that ironic. Nobody is perfect. But one thing is for sure; for every perceived set back Augusta has advanced five times. R u hating? Willie is surely alive and well. Through it all we will overcome. What can you do to help? And, True Story, how can we claim that we are one and Christian when we can't stand for what's right regardless of color.

"R U Hating?"Minister Baker,aren't you in your 50's?Speaking in hip hop vernacular may be just a wee bit beyond you.After all,remember what happens when "old men" with limited knowledge of such jargon start recklessly parroting it.IMUS!Anyway,I could never be one with you because apparently,I have way too much brain activity that prevents me from being swayed by your distortions,half-truths,and outright...let me be nice,factual errors.And obviously my devil nature would never allow us to become fellow Christians "regardless of color."Like you stated,"nobody's perfect."But unlike you,my imperfections aren't used to mask my own inadequacies nor are they used to indict an entire race of people because of them.Personal Faith.Personal Responsibility.Personal Accountability.Self-Determination and Self-Reliance.The keys to getting a clue.By the way,love the show and give my best to Champ,willya?Thanks.Bye Bye now.

Champ today (6-14)you proved exactly what a F'n idiot you are for slamm'n Reggie Williams for telling the truth about Moron Williams. Moron Williams is the king of stupid. You know Champ you had no creditabilty in Augusta and since you hookked with faggot Ryan B. you have even less. Your stupidity is going to come back and bite you square in your anal cavity

Champ, you and Doyle are playing a devisive game with the racial groups of Augusta. You both are dredging up centuries old injustices (and yes there have been serious injustices) to fuel hatred. Fortunately, your efforts appear to be satisfied by targeting Beazley and Rhodes. Doyle is satisfied to use blanket allegations and global accusations to drive a wedge between whites and blacks in Augusta. Invoking the name of God in your efforts is something between you and Him, but I sure wouldn't want to have that to answer for on that great judgement day. "Blessed are the peacemakers, for they shall be called the children of God" Matt5:9

Champ has privately told several folks that he has no use for marion Williams. If he really feels that way, he should say so. Champ's dad never acted like the fool that Marion has shown himself to be. Sitting on the fence in the mayor's race got Champ NO WHERE. Lets see if he has the guts to tell Marion to shut up the way he tells others (white folks) what to do.

Champ would better serve "his" people by promoting positive action rather than negative and punitive action against people who have disparaged blacks (whom Champ doesn't even know such as the Duke Soccer Team accuser). It really looks like a personal vendetta against Rhodes and detracts from resources which could be better utilized. "Get in where you fit in" makes sense only if your are doing something that will make a difference. It is starting to look like "Do something, even if it makes no sense". Same goes with Doyle. His blanket scattergun approach to the reasons for black's plight in Augusta does nothing but dwell on the past and build resentment. The saying "it is better to light one candle than curse the darkness" comes to mind. What was it JFK said in his inaugural address? "Some men see things as they are and say why. I dream things that never were and say why not."

This isn't a blog to ask champ questions and try to twist and distort minds. Isn't it strange that Austin all of a sudden is running scared and the white power structure is openinly admitting that Champ all of a sudden has tremendous influence. Wonder who's writting the blogs?

Haven't seen any blogs about Champs approach to growing the city and promoting all that is good like: racial unity, economic empowerment and spiritual motivation. Why can't you find anythig wrong with his approach? Are you saying that all of these sponsors of Beasley are dropping because Champ is wrong?? Its strange the more you try to kill Champ the more he grows. First he was DUMB, now he's ELOQUENT and ARTICULATE. Figures… You love it when he promotes getting along with whites but hate it when he promotes self help. There's no question as to why the Metro Spirit is in his corner.

Dear sjb,I have been out of pocket for a few days, so haven't had a chance to respond to your comment.First, I reviewed the last few comments, excluding "boomer" haven't seen the first question asked of Champ. Maybe you are viewing another blog and getting them confused. That's OK, It happens. Try some Ginko Biloba.

How exactly is Champ "promoting racial unity? (Oh by the way, I am asking sjb and not Champ) By attacking Beazley Broadcasting? The sponsors pulling out of Beazley are driven by profits and have made a mistake. I am a big proponent of the 1st amendment of our constitution, and therefore will no longer do business with Ryans, Geico, or Kroger. Comcast I still have because they are still advertising with Beazley, just not letting Austin do it. Ashley Brown now does the broadcasts. Racial Unity promotion... self help. I'm missing the connection.

I don't think Champ is dumb. I think he is misguided and driven by a rage resulting from his father's conviction. I can't say I blame him. Austin played a critical role in the investigation leading to the indictment and conviction. That's a grudge any man would have to carry. Champ needs to be careful because the anger can destroy from the inside.

Now to your last comments. How is Champ promoting self help. Or maybe we need the definition of self help. Is it Champ help? Isn't that what got the Ex Senator in trouble and the hous haus?

And Champ promoting getting along with whites? Is this the same guy on tape calling Richmond County Sheriff Deputies "CRACKERS" during the James Brown bash meltdown. I'm sorry but I can't hear what you’re saying because what you are doing is too loud.

The black community in this town is screaming for new, fresh black leadership. There is a vacuum being filled by the closest facsimile of leadership, and that is damaging. Ryan B? Pleezz! Marion Williams? Give me a break. Brother Garcia? You've got to be joking.

Champ...(Not a question, a statement) This has the earmarks of your time. Be a unifier. Be a leader. Rise above the rhetoric of losers who want to blame others for their self imposed condition. Be a leader of men, not a leader of black men.

Well, Mr. Mike Ryan or Austin Rhodes from the Augusta Chronicle and the Austin Rhodes talk show, it seems that you are still up to your old tricks of no good. Did Champ join the wrong party or disagree with ol’ Billy boy? It’s quite clear that Champ drives y’all crazy!! If you stop worrying about his political career you might be able to find some peace. You went after his father and is now on his way back home (thank God)...now you are more obessed with Champ. You expect for people to believe that champ is in a rage against Austin… Have you considered that Champ has been accussed of being too light on Nasty Mouth? Even whites don't understand why he asks his listeners (over the radio air waves) to pray for Austin. That isnt the treaks of of a vengful person… Furthermore, Champ has a 15 year track record of promoting racial unity that started with the Help of the Augusta Chronicle... Please explain that one.

I think you guys are going bananas because the protest is effective. What you need to be focused on is the a story about the Augusta-Richmond County Sheriff’s department and all the money that is not being filed/reported to the IRS by officers that work specials. Heard that the Chronicle won’t touch that issue…I wonder why?

Quite funny that you say you have a tape of Champ calling a sheriff deputy a cracker. The public hasn't heard it. Where is it? After the Augusta Chronicle and Austin Rhodes lied to the public about the James Brown Festival and alleged that Champ stole 100k, harassed the artists, lied about the non-profit’s status and made up lies about what the mayor, sheriff and the artist said. Ever heard of the Augusta Chronicle backing or writting a story about Champ, well they did: there hasn't been anyone who has promoted racial unity like Champ Walker. The Augusta Chronicle wrote a story about Charlie Norwood writting then President Bill Clinton for Champ to be a part of the First ever conference on hate crimes. Norwood did so because he knew of Champ’s work in promoting unity. After you wrote all those negative, false and misleading stories about the Heritage Crest Foundation, I took it upon myself to research all that you said and wrote and read the letter from President Clinton thanking Champ for his help. I remember it well and will NEVER, EVER forget it....it was the strangest thing. It changed my ENTIRE perception of Champ and now a supporter for life. I even heard the comercial that Will Morris and Champ did to promote racial unity and raise funds for the United Way.

That's strange because the story ran around the same time that Champ came out against Austin and advertisers started falling by the wayside.

If there was a tape of Champ calling someone a cracker it would have been out lond before now; everyone would know that. I’ve notice the same tatic was used when Champ ran for congress. Great tatic is you are trying to destroy a person in the media, though actions speak louder than words. Again, Austin Rhodes and Mike Ryan "Fifteen (15) years of a track record of racial unity that started with the Help of the Chronicle.... You must explain that one. Did Champ join the wrong party or disagree with ol’ Billy boy?

There are more people than Austin Rhodes and Mike Ryan out there which have the same views. I am neither of these two.It seems there is no room for a voice of reason on this blog. It also seems impossible to have a reasonable discourse with unreasonable people. I would match wits with you, but that would be like shooting an unarmed man.So, you and your type continue to rant, rave, pound the drum of victimhood blaming everyone and everything white for your current state of discontent. In the meantime, sew seeds of racial discontent by referring to white people as “Mister Charlie”, “Whitey” and any other derogatory term you are allowed to use. All the while, stand on your stack of Bibles and claim God has entitled you to do so.Have a nice day, Mr sjb.

It’s a shame that you attribute those terms to Champ’s radio show “The Other side of the Story.” You haven't heard such terms that’s the problem. …Always trying to tell people what to do…. you are smarter than anyone else. However, I notice that you didn't answer any of the questions pose to you from your last post on here. I said call in to Champ’s show and let your voice be heard; people are waiting to hear. Are you afraid? I haven’t heard Champ blame other folks; he just simply educates them as to why they need to move on. In addition, he assists in preparing them to take advantage of opportunities instead of being angry. If we were doing what you suggest we would be doing great harm to our people. And as far as a stack of Bibles, PLEASE tell me where he is wrong. I'm begging you! And waiting! I bet this will end this dialogue, huh!

We actually had no dialogue to begin with. di•a•logue ˈdaɪ əˌlɔg, -ˌlɒg - Show Spelled Pronunciation[dahy-uh-lawg, -log] Pronunciation Key - Show IPA Pronunciation noun, verb -logued, -logu•ing. –noun 1. conversation between two or more persons. 2. the conversation between characters in a novel, drama, etc. 3. an exchange of ideas or opinions on a particular issue, esp. a political or religious issue, with a view to reaching an amicable agreement or settlement. 4. a literary work in the form of a conversation: a dialogue of Plato.

If you will review the following, I have answered your questions as best as they make sense.

Well, Mr. Mike Ryan or Austin Rhodes from the Augusta Chronicle and the Austin Rhodes talk show, it seems that you are still up to your old tricks of no good. (ASKED AND ANSWERED SEE RESPONSE ON 6_22)Did Champ join the wrong party or disagree with ol’ Billy boy? (RHETORICAL QUESTION? I DON’T HAVE AN ANSWER)It’s quite clear that Champ drives y’all crazy!! If you stop worrying about his political career you might be able to find some peace. You went after his father and is now on his way back home (thank God)...now you are more obessed with Champ. You expect for people to believe that champ is in a rage against Austin… Have you considered that Champ has been accussed of being too light on Nasty Mouth? (YES) Even whites don't understand why he asks his listeners (over the radio air waves) to pray for Austin. That isnt the treaks of of a vengful person… Furthermore, Champ has a 15 year track record of promoting racial unity that started with the Help of the Augusta Chronicle... Please explain that one. (NOT A QUESTION, DEFINE TRACK RECORD, EXPLAIN ?)

I think you guys are going bananas because the protest is effective. What you need to be focused on is the a story about the Augusta-Richmond County Sheriff’s department and all the money that is not being filed/reported to the IRS by officers that work specials. Heard that the Chronicle won’t touch that issue…I wonder why? (YOU MUST ASK THE CHRONICLE. OTHER THAN BEING A SUBSCRIBER I HAVE NO ASSOCIATION)

Quite funny that you say you have a tape of Champ calling a sheriff deputy a cracker. The public hasn't heard it. Where is it? (I DIDN’T SAY I HAD A TAPE. I HEARD IT ON A RADIO SHOW)After the Augusta Chronicle and Austin Rhodes lied to the public about the James Brown Festival and alleged that Champ stole 100k, harassed the artists, lied about the non-profit’s status and made up lies about what the mayor, sheriff and the artist said. Ever heard of the Augusta Chronicle backing or writting a story about Champ (YES) , well they did: there hasn't been anyone who has promoted racial unity like Champ Walker. The Augusta Chronicle wrote a story about Charlie Norwood writting then President Bill Clinton for Champ to be a part of the First ever conference on hate crimes. Norwood did so because he knew of Champ’s work in promoting unity. After you wrote all those negative, false and misleading stories about the Heritage Crest Foundation, I took it upon myself to research all that you said and wrote and read the letter from President Clinton thanking Champ for his help. I remember it well and will NEVER, EVER forget it....it was the strangest thing. It changed my ENTIRE perception of Champ and now a supporter for life. I even heard the comercial that Will Morris and Champ did to promote racial unity and raise funds for the United Way.

That's strange because the story ran around the same time that Champ came out against Austin and advertisers started falling by the wayside.

If there was a tape of Champ calling someone a cracker it would have been out lond before now; everyone would know that. I’ve notice the same tatic was used when Champ ran for congress. Great tatic is you are trying to destroy a person in the media, though actions speak louder than words. Again, Austin Rhodes and Mike Ryan "Fifteen (15) years of a track record of racial unity that started with the Help of the Chronicle.... You must explain that one. (SEE ABOVE) Did Champ join the wrong party or disagree with ol’ Billy boy? (SEE ABOVE)It’s a shame that you attribute those terms to Champ’s radio show “The Other side of the Story.” (I DID NOT ATTRIBUTE THOSE TERMS TO CHAMP’S SHOW BUT DID AIM THOSE REMARKS AT “YOU AND YOUR TYPE”) You haven't heard such terms that’s the problem. …Always trying to tell people what to do…. you are smarter than anyone else. However, I notice that you didn't answer any of the questions pose to you from your last post on here. I said call in to Champ’s show and let your voice be heard; people are waiting to hear. Are you afraid? I haven’t heard Champ blame other folks; he just simply educates them as to why they need to move on. In addition, he assists in preparing them to take advantage of opportunities instead of being angry. If we were doing what you suggest we would be doing great harm to our people. And as far as a stack of Bibles, PLEASE tell me where he is wrong. (I CAN NOT PROVE A NEGATIVE. YOU SHOW ME BIBLICAL JUSTIFICATION FOR THE TECHNIQUES BEING USED) I'm begging you! And waiting! I bet this will end this dialogue, huh!MATTHEW 6:12 12 And forgive us our debts, as we forgive our debtors.MATTHEW 6:14 14 For if ye forgive men their trespasses, your heavenly Father will also forgive you: MATTHEW 6:15But if ye forgive not men their trespasses, neither will your Father forgive your trespasses.LUKE 6:37 37 ¶ Judge not, and ye shall not be judged: condemn not, and ye shall not be condemned: forgive, and ye shall be forgiven: MATTHEW 5:4444 But I say unto you, Love your enemies, bless them that curse you, do good to them that hate you, and pray for them which despitefully use you, and persecute you;

I analyze based on the objective and the method to achieve the objective. I have not heard an objective clearly stated in any of the different media or blogs. Do you know what the objective of this movement is? Can you define it? And if so, have you delved into the root cause? Are your methods aimed at achieving the objective? Those are some questions for you to answer. They need not be answered to me, but surely any movement must define these to be effective.

Now we are getting somewhere. The quotes are certainly worth discussing but what do they have to do with the PROTEST itself? The protest is a demonstration of the people’s disapproval of the comments and actions of Austin Rhodes. We LOVE him and pray for him but, he, like any person who persists in demeaning people must be dealt with. As long as we are forgiving, peaceful and the cause is a just one, then how are we outside of The Will of God. We listen with an open heart and mind.

As a caller stated on Champ’s radio show, “was MLK part of a spiritual movement.” Was God in it?

Rhodes is already forgiven. But, just as a person must be punished for a committing a crime, Rhodes consistent statements which degrade people of color and others are certainly worthy of protest.

How is the protest wrong? Did you hear the many negative comments? Read and listen here: http://www.crabinabucket.com/AugustasImus.html. Why does so many whites think Rhoads is a race baiter including the Metro Spirit?

If Austin Rhodes is off the air tomorrow, would the movement be deemed successful, everyone have a celebration and return to life as it was before Imus?

I have heard on air personalities list the following as objectives :( in no particular order)1) Black people will no longer be disrespected (by whites)2) Increase the number of black elected officials in Augusta (referred to the "browning of Augusta")3) Defend Marion Williams4) Defeat Deke Copenhaver in the next Mayoral election.5) Secure more city contracts for black owned businesses6) Give everyone in Hyde Park a new home in a new area.7) Gain "Silver Rights"?8) Get in where you fit in

And on and on and on....

What is the problem, what is the root cause, what is the objective, and finally, what methods will achieve the objective.

MLK had a clear objective. It is defined in the "I have a dream" speech. He had a clear understanding of the problem and approached the objective with multiple methods (i.e. political discussions, demonstrations, boycotts, etc...), and I believe he set in motion the movement which wiped away the widespread denial of rights and racial abuse experienced by blacks during that era.

What is the objective?What is the root cause?What are the methods to drive change?

You must be kidding me, right? You have heard on air personalities talk about these things. What's wrong with the objectives you mentioned?

The Austin movement is nothing… Its the focal point for many but truly only an issue that will send a solid message that we understand that we have power. Power in numbers, dollars and sense. And in the next election we will use the power of the almighty vote.

Root cause:

The root cause of the problem stems from the fleshly trial of Slavery. This explains the deep rooted envy and jealousy. In the spiritual realm the issue of disobedience is at the foundation of bondage. In order to overcome the hundreds of years of mental conditioning and physical abuse, coupled with the issue of sin, courageous spirit filled leaders must use wordly means and resources to reach the masses with a unified message of the gospel - The Good News. Nothing else will do!

Objective:

Unify citizens of Augusta of all orgins by promoting a common message that injustice anywhere is injustice everywhere.

We will acheive this mission by three methods that have proven to be effective: if you listen you know what they are: so, no need to repeat them.

Who defends Marion Williams? Did you defend Deke's land deal?

The goal is to provide education, information and theraphy to the masses for the purpose of engaging them in the politcal, economic and social advancement.

Who mentioned something about beating Deke? He needs to be beat… Don't you think? Has he provided the leadership to heal this city’s racial divide?

What's wrong with ‘get in where you fit in?’ I happen to like; it includes everyone….

If those are your objectives, then so be it. What I hear in the discussions and monologue on both “The Water Cooler Moment” and “The Other Side of the Story” is a targeting of people and situations. This is the equivalent of treating a fever with wet washcloths instead of the needed antibiotics.

I believe if you want to see political change, the vote is the most valuable tool to use. Voter registration drives have always been a strong suit in the black community. Getting the registered voters to the poles is another matter. The strength and integrity of the candidate is also critical. Augusta currently suffers from a vacuum in black leadership. Indulging in petty retributive political maneuvers and beating the drum of lost causes has spent any political clout many of the current politicians had. The days of the Farakhan approach are over.

It is always expedient and tidy to label the root of the problem as slavery. When people are taught that their current condition is not their responsibility, they feel no reason to alter their actions and improve their condition. It is difficult to believe that something abolished over 200 years ago is responsible for high school dropouts, illegitimate births, drug usage, black on black crime, widespread dependency on government programs, etc… I could blame my problems on many things which have happened in the much more recent past. I choose not to. I choose to be responsible for my own actions and accept the consequences for those actions. I also enjoy the benefits when those decisions are the right ones.

If you truly want to unify citizens of Augusta of all origins, your message needs to be more about addressing the injustice rather than accentuating the race of the victim. Injustice has no color preference.

And NO I don’t think Deke needs replacing. I think Deke is one of the best things to happen to Augusta in a long time. So do 65% of Augusta voters.

Keep the focus in a positive light and you will attract positive minded people. If you drift into the basement of negativity, you will attract negative, hate filled, vengeful people.

FYI: Champ Walker, has left WAAW. He took his program “The Other Side of the Story” to WKZK at 1600 AM. With a one-hour program beginning at 3 p.m., Walker will go head-to-head with Austin Rhodes, who airs from 3-6 p.m. on WGAC. Listen live at: http://www.wkzk.net/

I heard Ryan B state many times he was leaving the CSRA on the last day of July for a "position" in Washington. Imagine my surprise when he is still on WAAW this morning. Hmmmm.... The truth seems ever elusive to Mr. Doyle, but then again, the truth has never really bothered him anyway. Black Augusta, beware the seeds of discontent, discord and contention sown by this person under the cloak of religion and Godliness.

Augusta's Southern Christian Leadership Conference is asking the Augusta commission to do its own investigation into the dealings of Augusta's procurement department, directed by Geri Sams. Community activist Woody Merry has called for an investigation into the department. It has faced a barrage of allegations recently alleging the mismanagement of millions of tax dollars. At a press conference next week, the SCLC will ask that the commission conduct its own audit and the group wants Augusta Mayor Deke Copenhaver to give his opinion of the matter.

I first thought is this a joke? Who is qualified to do the research required? Joe Bowles probably is but isn't he along with Deke and others suspected of being behind the scene operatives sending in attack dawg Woody Merry to get rid of Geri Sams, Procurement Director? As I see it right now the WGAC Scott Hudson allegations don't meet the scratch and sniff test and I am seriously concerned about what reasoning is behind the Augusta Chronicle joining in a Merry lawsuit. It still isn't clear what documents they were denied. The more you look the less you find to validate these Merry ole lawsuits. Meanwhile Augusta City Attorney is doing what? Looks like they are keeping the Procurement Department silent while those suing the city are using the media to run point for them as they work towards grabbing some mo taxpayers money. Betcha there be a settlement as the City Attorney advises the commission it be cheaper to settle with Merry than go to trial. Oh yeah, with the stipulation Geri Sams be fired and that way she can handle any criminal or civil lawsuits aimed at her on her own. The SCLC and people who know Geri Sams is being railroaded better be doing more than asking the Augusta Commission to do anything if they don't want to see Geri marched off to prison.

Lawsuit accuses director of fraudBy Johnny Edwards| Staff Writer http://chronicle.augusta.com/stories/021408/met_187313.shtml A federal lawsuit against Augusta's procurement director accuses her of running a rigged bidding system, punishing some contractors while playing favorites with others. Attorney Robert Mullins filed the suit Wednesday on behalf of the Association for Fair Government and three companies who lost out on government jobs. One of the three is Thompson Building Wrecking Co., which sued the city in 2006 after its bid to demolish the Telfair Street candy factory was rejected over a technicality.The new complaint depicts a procurement department operating on inconsistent, sometimes irrational rules. It characterizes director Geri Sams as "stubbornly litigious," acting with "malice, fraud, wantonness, oppression" and "indifference to consequences."

What a Commission we have in Augusta. Will someone give these guys an IQ test? I'm scratching my head about Barbee even being considered. Only in Augusta. David Barbee's election to Augusta's Board of Health was short lived! It lasted only one hour, to be exact. At Tuesday's meeting, county commissioners voted to appoint David Barbee and Rosa Clemons to the board. But an hour later Commissioner J.R. Hatney asked for a re-vote. He says he had problems with the city's new electronic voting system and didn't mean to vote yes to the measure. diego sevi

I question the expertise of those of The Augusta Chronicle doing the "investigative reporting" about the Augusta Procurement Department and the character assassination of Geri Sams. No doubt their analysis will never hold up to the scrutiny of standards required to make accurate assessments, especially ones that have criminal implications. I doubt any intelligent person would not even allow these "investigative reporters" to analyze their tax returns, yet you are willing to ruin a person's life based on their findings. That is absolutely irresponsible.There is no government or business in the world where you cannot show how much money would have been saved if the "low bid" had always been awarded the contract. But what city would send firefighters into burning buildings wearing the cheapest fire suit or ask police officers to chase criminals with the cheapest cars? The first priority of procurement is to ensure that all bids meet the required standards.The "investigative reporters" have a clear lack of understanding or total disregard for why bids are non-compliant. They assume all things are equal in quality, stability, experience and availability. They disregard things that must be considered in the awarding of bids -- things the law requires consideration for, such as disadvantaged businesses, minority businesses, women owned businesses, funds earmarked for native Alaskan business (Commissioner Joe Bowles is familiar with that Alaska stuff) and even veterans and the disabled.Left out of this whole picture is the pecking order at which Geri Sams is at the fourth level. Therefore following the chain of command in this important and critical display of true investigative reporting seems more than appropriate. Why does the buck stop at the desk of Sams? Who all is running for cover and why is the Mayor mute?It will be such a circus to see reporters testify as experts and it will be interesting to see who all is behind the scenes in all this.The Augusta Chronicle has developed the reputation of the bully and defiant abuser of people not of their persuasions.This newspaper is a danger to truth, justice and the American sense of fair play.Shame Shame Shame on you.

....ARE BLACKS OFF-LIMTS? Lately I have been hearing people complain blacks are off-limits and get away with everything because they play the race card. Well, some fools do that. I have been called racist and other derogatory names by a couple of people, but that is no excuse for me to quit being critical of whomever nor is it to really be taken seriously if I have not earned that reputation. Some would have you think blacks have become untouchable regarding criticism or scrutiny. Those of you who have been convinced of this need only take a closer look at how many have been under the gun and targets of examination and investigation. Tom Grant, Metro Spirit, has been very critical of several black people. He ran a cartoon showing Champ Walker as a snake oil salesman (which Champ still complains about), he railed about Flash Gordon's management of the arena, and in particular, he unfairly criticized Bernard Harper for his service on the commission. I complained about that and still believe Grant was dead wrong in his characterization of Harper. The difference when Grant criticizes is that we all know it is not a race-based grievance. Many conservatives paint him as a bleeding heart liberal who supports blacks right or wrong. Not true. How is it that Tom Grant and the Metro Spirit have become trusted by minorities and the Chronicle and WGAC are not? I believe it has been because he has reached out to and got to know the people and they know him. Some get mad at him but still they trust him to do the right thing. One thing for sure. Tom Grant is the real deal and he is an experienced investigative reporter. You cannot put him in a box. I never know how he will react to any issue and it is quite clear he is not in lockstep with anyone. On the other hand, with Austin Rhodes and WGAC in general you know what you're going to get before you get it. It's the same old same old rhetoric with different titles, subjects and actors. WGAC has its core group of die hard supporters that Rhodes often claims are the movers and shakers, the educated and affluent of this area. He never tells how many of these types work at WGAC. The Augusta Chronicle is staffed predominately by conservatives and the reporting has that flair in it. Noted for hunting down and eating lefties, the Augusta Chronicle is the standard bearer for the Republican Party. The assertion that blacks get away with anything because they are black in Augusta is surely not supported by facts. There is the proclamation by WGAC's Austin Rhodes that, "The blacks do it. Why can't I," and about double standards, etc etc., which leads one to think they are getting special treatment and whites are held to a different standard. This is open for debate. Do blacks get special treatment vs. Austin Rhodes? I can name many blacks who have been dragged through the mud by Rhodes, WGAC and the Chronicle. They've been accused of being liars, thieves, crooks, frauds, stupid, ugly and incompetent. Mostly, they do not even respond. But let them fight back and all of a sudden they are playing the race card and trying to intimidate. We need to think for ourselves and look at the facts before we take anyone's word for anything. An open and honest media welcomes the public scrutiny. They do not circle the wagons or put a gag order on employees. Is this the case in Augusta? Are our views and opinions ours, or are they ones cultured by a steady diet of agenda-driven and biased media? This type of media stifles racial harmony and keeps the fires of mistrust burning in all camps. Thus we have whites saying blacks are the real racists now and blacks saying 95% of whites are racists. This matter of calling people racist backs people up against a wall, and does nothing to encourage people to overcome their differences. Frankly, I doubt we have that many real racists around here. I concede we have prejudices and media-inspired stereotyping, but for most of us we simply want peace and harmony and a good community for our kids and grand-kids.

Today I feel as a community we in Augusta, Georgia are seeing the perversion of the law. In my humble opinion a team of shysters and shake-down artists calling themselves activist, businessmen and lawyers use legal loopholes, questionable tactics and their access to a friendly press to convict Geri Sams and taint public opinion. Their latest tactic; Geri Sams is now threaten to be "Sued for Speaking Out" unless she retracts statements made in an interview with editor Tom Grant of the Metro Spirit. This is an obvious retalitory threat and has all the looks of A Strategic Lawsuit Against Public Participation ("SLAPP") This form of lawsuit is frequently filed to intimidate and silence the Geri Sams or opponents by burdening them with the cost of a legal defense. Truth or justice be damned and as usual the lawyers always win regardless of which side they are on. The Augusta Chronicle ignores the many many flaws in this so called investigative reporting. It is as if the plaintiff and the Chronicle are working hand in hand with each other. It is unbelievable at the level of anger and apathy this community is displaying. Those of us who see this injustice for what it is and speak out have become the brunt of cruel and hateful commentary. As Americans we are exhorted to be a part of something far bigger than our own existence. Everything is bigger than me so I seek to find the noble, righteous and the difficult because I tend to shrink my life down to the size of my own wants, needs, and feelings. Getting out of myself and stepping into a hostile arena of controversy and ridicule just ain't fun. However there is a clean and healthy feeling I feel about myself that makes it worth it when I advocate for Justice. I cannot think of any advocacy bigger than justice for all of us. Therefore I seek to confront injustice. Justice to me does not necessarily mean I have decided the guilt or innocence of a person but rather I have decided they are not getting a fair shake at justice. That is when I step forward. When any person's presumption of innocence is taken away by the manipulation of public opinion by the media we must become acutely aware and skeptical of that media. That is my plea to Americans. Ask yourselves if you are getting all the facts and is this person getting a fair shake. My mantra is and will always be 'Justice, Justice, Justice.' I have accumulated many critics, perhaps even some enemies. Some seek to label me as a fool others as an idealist. My words are scoffed at and my motives questioned. To these I offer the words of General Douglas MacArthur, "The unbelievers will say they are but words, but a slogan, but a flamboyant phrase. Every pedant, every demagogue, every cynic, every hypocrite, every troublemaker, and, I am sorry to say, some others of an entirely different character, will try to downgrade them even to the extent of mockery and ridicule." All who value Freedom must realize that without Justice there is no Freedom. If an injustice is even suspected it is our duty to confront it and not allow it to take place for tomorrow it may be we who have the injustice brought on our heads. I think it was George Washington who said ."When it comes to matters of truth it is what the public thinks it is." He was speaking of how the biased press of the day was castigating him, even saying he wanted to be King of America. Yes, even Washington had his Augusta Chronicle. Today, in Augusta, I see some of the media that is biased, unfair and mean spirited. This media is not a friend to Americans but simply a voice for an ideology and the like minded. I encourage Americans to not be hoodwinked into anything. Listen to all sides and investigate before deciding. Always keep an open mind. The rubber really meets the road of life when we must chose between doing what is right or simply being apathetic. Speaking out or being silent, being comfortable or being uncomfortable defines whether we are a people of conscience or merely self-centered. Determining a purpose for my life demands so much more than being very comfortable in my nest. I am setting an example and I have young eyes upon me. diego sevi 3/12/08

...let his dream live on.

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